hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Authorizes President to award Medal of Honor to John W. Ripley.
Sponsored by House (specific sponsor not in bill).
Passed both chambers, enrolled for President's signature.
This bill waives normal time limits so the President can award the Medal of Honor to John W. Ripley for his actions on April 2, 1972, during the Vietnam War. He was previously awarded the Navy Cross. The bill has passed the House and Senate and is now awaiting the President's signature to become law.
Introduced Jan 22, 2026
This bill has passed both chambers of Congress in identical form and has been signed by the President (or a veto was overridden by a two-thirds majority). The provisions of the bill are now law.
The bill only affects the award of a single medal to one individual. If signed, the President would present the Medal of Honor to Ripley (or his family). There are no broader policy changes or costs associated with this bill.
Supporters Say
Supporters say Ripley's extraordinary heroism deserves the nation's highest military honor.
Critics Say
Critics argue that bypassing normal procedures for medal awards may set a precedent.
Supporters note that Ripley's actions were already recognized with the Navy Cross, but many believe the Medal of Honor is more appropriate. Critics worry that waiving time limits could lead to more requests for upgrades. However, the bill is narrow and specific to one case.